Supplemental Burial Allowance
Supplemental Burial Allowance of up to $6,000 is authorized for certain military personnel killed in combat or while on active duty in hostile/imminent danger locations on or after September 29, 2003.
The supplemental burial benefit provides a maximum of $6000 payment to defray funeral and burial expenses for members of the armed forces who were residents of NYS and who were receiving special pay for duty subject to hostile fire or imminent danger at the time of their death.
Who is eligible?
The burial allowance will be paid to the family member responsible for funeral and burial expenses. Recipients eligible for reimbursement are, in order of priority:
- Surviving spouse or domestic partner of qualified decedent
- Adult children of qualified decedent
- Parents of qualified decedent
- Any other relative of qualified decedent
What documentation is required?
- Proof of Death (casualty report, death certificate)
- Proof of decedent’s NYS residency
- Proof of relationship to decedent (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Statement of account from funeral home (showing name of decedent, nature and cost of all services rendered and any unpaid balance)
- Copy of receipted bills
- Completed application for any allowance granted by federal government
Is there a time limit to apply for this allowance?
Yes. Applications must be received within two years of permanent burial or cremation of the body.
How do you apply?
Applications can be obtained from any of the State Veterans Counseling Offices or by clicking HERE. Submit completed applications to:
NYS Division of Veterans’ Affairs
c/o Finance Unit
#5 Empire State Plaza, 28th Floor, Suite 2836
Albany, NY 12223
For Additional Information Contact
1-888-838-7697
